Mars Exploration Takes on a Whole New Look This SpringNews story originally written on April 19, 2001

The 2001 Mars Odyssey spacecraft was launched on April 7, 2001. It is scheduled to get to Mars in October 2001. While it orbits Mars, the Odyssey will look at what makes up the
surface of Mars. It will also look at possible radiation hazards for future human explorers.

Five other major Mars missions are being planned. Some will be rovers that will drive around on the surface and some are spacecraft that will orbit Mars! One mission will bring rocks and dirt back to Earth from the surface of Mars. Cool!

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